Seattle and Vancouver are only about 140 miles apart, but the trip has one step most drives don’t: the Canadian border. A private car service takes care of the driving, the border line and your luggage, so you can relax from your door in Seattle to your door in Vancouver. Here is what to expect.
How long does Seattle to Vancouver take by car?
Downtown Seattle to downtown Vancouver is usually 2.5 to 3 hours of driving, north on I-5 to Blaine and then BC Highway 99 into the city. The border adds time on top of that. On a quiet weekday morning it can be short. On summer afternoons and holiday weekends the line can be much longer.
That is why every Black Diamond Vancouver quote includes one hour for the border crossing, in either direction. You know the price before you go.
Which border crossing do drivers use?
Most car trips cross at Blaine, using either the Peace Arch crossing (I-5 and BC Highway 99) or the Pacific Highway crossing (SR 543 and BC Highway 15). They are close together, so drivers check the live wait times before they reach Blaine and pick the shorter line.
What documents do you need?
Every passenger needs a valid passport or another accepted travel document. U.S. and Canadian citizens can also use a NEXUS card, a U.S. passport card or an Enhanced Driver’s License, and visitors from some countries also need a visa. Rules can change, so check U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Canada Border Services Agency before you travel.
What happens at the border?
- You stay in the car while we wait in line.
- Have your documents ready before we reach the booth, so the officer can check everyone quickly.
- Answer questions simply. Officers usually ask where you are going, how long you are staying and what you are bringing.
- Declare what you carry, such as food, alcohol, gifts or large amounts of cash.
- Leave cannabis at home. Taking cannabis across the border is illegal in both directions, even though it is legal in Washington and in Canada.
Popular reasons to book a car to Vancouver
- Alaska cruises from Canada Place. Many Alaska sailings leave from Vancouver. A private car takes you and all your luggage straight from Seattle to the terminal.
- Flights from YVR. Sometimes Vancouver International Airport has the better flight, and a door-to-door ride is easier than connecting.
- Business trips and events. Work, rest or take calls on the way, with no airport security and no rental car.
- Groups and families. A Sprinter van carries up to 9 or up to 14 passengers per van, so everyone rides together.
Vancouver to Seattle works too
We also pick up anywhere in Metro Vancouver and drive you back to Seattle, SeaTac or the Eastside, with the same one hour of border time included in the quote.
Book your trip
See all the details on our Seattle to Vancouver BC car service page, or look at our other long-distance trips, including Seattle to Portland. Every quote is a flat, all-inclusive price with taxes, fees and gratuity included. Book online or call (425) 470-2972, 24/7.